Alleged Free Nutritious Meal Poisoning in Gembong Declared an Outbreak

The Pati Regency Government has declared the case of alleged mass poisoning, which affected hundreds of students and teachers after consuming the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) menu, as an Outbreak (Kejadian Luar Biasa - KLB). As of now, dozens of victims are still undergoing intensive care in hospitals.

Based on monitoring on Thursday (10/9), the condition of the victims from SMP Negeri 1 Gembong and MTs Negeri 3 Pati is gradually improving. Nevertheless, 45 people still require inpatient treatment at RSUD RAA Soewondo and Mitra Bangsa Hospital, Pati.

Meanwhile, hundreds of other students and teachers who experienced symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and weakness have been allowed to return home and undergo outpatient care after receiving medical treatment at local community health centres and hospitals.

The Head of the Pati Regency Health Office, Luki Pratugas Narimo, stated that health officers have been deployed directly to students’ homes to sweep and ensure no symptomatic victims have been missed.

The Acting Regent of Pati, Risma Adhi Chandra, emphasised that the Outbreak status was declared so that handling could be fully taken over by the local government. Under this status, all medical costs for the victims will be fully covered by the Pati Regency Government using the Unforeseen Expenditure (BTT) fund.

Furthermore, Risma stated that the condition of the victims is continuously improving and some students have already returned to school activities. For the time being, the distribution of the MBG programme in the region has been suspended.

“We offer an open apology to parents and the entire community for this tragedy,” said Risma.

She also added that the emergency response has been swift and effective thanks to coordination between the Pati Regency Government, the Health Office, health facilities, schools, and the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG)/National Nutrition Agency (BGN).

The number of students and teachers suspected of being poisoned after consuming Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) at SMP Negeri 1 Gembong and MTs Negeri 3 Pati continues to rise. Food samples served at the school were found to be positive for three types of bacteria: Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli (E. coli).